Tin mine riverside retreat, log fires, views, wildlife, ruins, pet-friendly

Hidden in 16 acres of woodland, just upstream from the village of Calstock in Cornwall, you'll find the ivy-clad ruins of Okel Tor Mine; a Scheduled Ancient Monument, a National Landscape (AONB), a haven for wildlife and the location of our two romantic retreats - The Smithy and The Count House. These award-winning Grade II listed cottages nestle amongst oak and beech trees but have stunning panoramic views across the River Tamar to the rolling Devon hills the other side. Each cottage has been carefully restored, tastefully decorated and fitted with a log burning stove to create a comfortable and cosy retreat for one or two people.

THE SMITHY. With its forge and workshop, The Smithy at Okel Tor Mine is where ironwork was fabricated and tools maintained. The forge is long gone but The Smithy still retains the feel of its previous industrious life with its vaulted ceiling and timber panelling. Old, discarded iron picks lie abandoned on the veranda - an evocative reminder of the tough life of the tin miner. The Smithy has been lovingly converted to provide comfortable, well-appointed accommodation.

ANTIQUITY AND ARCHAEOLOGY IN ABUNDANCE. Okel Tor Mine lies in the heart of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. As well as exploring our own mine workings and buildings, walk or cycle the Tamar Trails around the Devon Great Consols mine, or take the mine train underground at Morwellham Quay. National Trust properties are always popular with guests. Cotehele House can be reached by a pleasant walk along the river, while Buckland Abbey, Anthony and Lanhydrock are all nearby. The Tavistock Guildhall Heritage Centre is also well worth a visit.

GREAT WALKING. A short walk right from your cottage door takes you through the old mine workings and back along the river, while a stroll into Calstock follows the wetlands wildlife reserve. The Tamara Way coast-to-coast path passes right through Okel Tor Mine and the spectacular views from Kit Hill are nearby too. Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor are less than 30 minutes’ drive and lovely Cornish beaches not much further. We also have a warm boiler house to dry boots and waterproofs.

DOGS ARE WELCOME. It’s a doggy heaven here - lots of great walks right from the door, a river to swim in plus dog-friendly pubs and a café in the local village. We provide throws for the sofas, a washdown for muddy paws and somewhere to dry towels and rugs.

FRIENDS OF OKEL TOR MINE. Returning guests comprise over 60% of stays at Okel Tor Mine - a statistic that speaks for itself!

Okel Tor Mine - Nature and heritage entwined in a unique setting.